Sunday, April 20, 2008

why should I expect actual science on a science test?

We just got done with our state's standardized testing and we all know what fun that can be. Well this was the first year that all 4th and 8th graders had to take a Science test to go along with the reading, writing and math tests. Of course I was all paranoid going into this since all fingers would be pointing to me if my kids did not do well (it was so much easier to empathize with the language arts and math teachers all these years but now I had to share anxiety).

This being the first year of the test makes it even more scary because there was no telling what it would be like. Now the silly thing on my part was thinking that the test would actually be a complete representation of the state's science standards - I can be such a silly boy at times!

Not that I would ever actually read the test because of course I signed the contract saying I would not even glance in the direction of an open test booklet, but nothing said I couldn't question my students afterwards. Well I asked multiple students from multiple classes and I could not believe what they told me. Basically there were no questions on the scientific method, nothing on identifying variables (independent, dependent, control), writing a hypothesis, no historical figures in science, or steps in how to construct an experiment. But apparently there were like 2-3 questions on the value of airbags.

Now as I have posted before, I am actually in favor of standardized testing BUT ONLY IF IT IS A VALID TEST. I love the idea of holding students accountable for learning but if the test has nothing to do with main tenants of the subject matter, then we are just spinning our wheels.

At least now I will not feel so bad if my kids bomb the test.

at 8:49 PM

about this site...

This site is basically going to be some rambling thoughts from a middle school science teacher. I want to share some insight in what it is like being surounded each day by the "hormonally challenged" and why I could not imagine doing any other job.

I would love to get your feedback so please leave comments along the way...I always encourage lots of participation in my classroom.

And if you want to simply drop me a line or ask me a question, you can email me at:

lura.mcelveen283@gmail.com

about me...

the teacher

Well in a nutshell I am somebody who left an eight year career in the high tech industry to try and inspire greatness in young teenagers. Not only am I crazy enough to WANT to teach middle school, but I am also in process of getting my Masters in Middle Level Education...I have to be committed to be doing that (either as in being "dedicated" or "hosptialized" - your choice)

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copyright...

Everything on this site is under copyright of the teacher. If you want to use or link any content you find here for non-commercial purposes, please make sure you reference this site. Hey, I am a school teacher after all and I do not even let my students plagiarize...